New Delhi: Al Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo has travelled to Spain to undergo hamstring treatment as the injury is “more serious” than first anticipated, said manager Jorge Jesus on Friday. He struggled while running during Al Nassr’s 3-1 league win over Al Fayha last weekend, and limped off the pitch.
Ronaldo had earlier missed a spot kick in the match before being forced off the field, raising major concerns about his fitness ahead of the FIFA World Cup. Initial injury assessments suggested Ronaldo could be ruled out for up to a month.
However, further examinations have indicated that the injury may be much more complicated than first feared. Jesus confirmed that Ronaldo travelled to Spain for treatment and will need rest and recovery.
“In the last game, Cristiano left with a muscle injury. After the tests he underwent, it became clear that it is a more serious injury than we were expecting. He will need rest and recovery. Cristiano will travel to Spain for treatment, as will other players who were injured,” Jesus said.
Ronaldo likely to be fit for World Cup
The star footballer is expected to follow a carefully managed recovery plan under the supervision of his therapist. The club is hoping that the treatment could speed up his return to the pitch. He expected to miss several weeks of action, but his participation in the 2026 World Cup is not doubtful at this stage.
The injury setback comes at an important phase of Al-Nassr’s season. The club currently is in the second position of the Saudi Pro League standings, level on points with Al-Hilal and one behind Al-Ahli.
The timeline of Ronaldo’s absence remains unclear. Even a brief spell on the sidelines could prove costly for Al-Nassr as they try to maintain momentum in the final phase of the league.
He will be hoping to recover in time for Portugal’s international friendly matches later this month. Portugal will face Mexico at the renovated Azteca Stadium on March 28 before taking on the United States on March 31 in Atlanta ahead of the World Cup.